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Independent Clauses

What is an Independent Clause?

An independent clause contains both a subject and a verb, completes a thought, and must be able to stand on its own as a complete sentence.

Some examples of independent clauses would be the following:

Garrett reads detective novels.

Kate threw a surprise party.

The biker glided down the hill.

We baked brownies.

Long-Form Videos: Independent Clauses

Long-form instructional video lessons allow students to engage with grammar concepts in more depth and detail.

This format provides students with a stronger foundation and a more comprehensive understanding of independent clauses.

Short-Form Videos: Independent Clauses

Short-form videos are an excellent way to review grammar concepts. Our two-minute instructional videos help students review the concept of independent clauses to further solidify their understanding.

Memorable Images: Independent Clauses

Independent Clauses

The use of images to connect visual cues with concepts makes it simpler for students to grasp and remember key ideas. GrammarFlip’s memorable images create visual associations that make independent clauses more engaging and easier to retain.

Definition Cards: Independent Clauses

Definition cards reinforce grammar concepts by providing clear and concise explanations that students can easily reference for quick review and better retention. GrammarFlip’s definintion cards help students review the concept of independent clauses to further solidify their understanding.

Independent Clauses

What to Know About Independent Clauses

Understanding independent clauses might best be explained by comparing them to dependent clauses. While both independent clauses and dependent clauses contain a subject and a verb, independent clauses can stand alone and complete a thought while dependent clauses cannot. In other words, independent clauses are complete sentences.

Don’t be distracted by short sentences or commands that might make you think they are not complete thoughts. They are still independent clauses! Consider the following two sentences:

I ran.
I = subject, ran = verb

Go.
(Understood You) = Subject, Go = Verb

Notice both sentences have a subject and a verb, and both complete a thought; therefore, they are independent clauses.

Once you have a solid understanding of independent clauses (and how they are different from dependent clauses), be sure to explore noun clauses, adjective clauses, adverb clauses, and elliptical clauses!

Download a Free Worksheet on Independent Clauses!

Click the image below to download your free worksheet on independent clauses!

Independent Clauses Worksheet

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